A Russian-flagged oil tanker, the Marinera, was seized by US forces in the North Atlantic on January 7 for alleged sanctions violations related to Venezuelan oil. Among the 28 crew members detained are three Indian nationals, including Rakshit Chauhan from Himachal Pradesh. Chauhan's family has appealed to Indian authorities, including Prime Minister Modi, for his safe return, noting his wedding is scheduled for February 19. The US stated the tanker was involved in moving oil in violation of international sanctions.